After a little more than an hour we pulled into the Inner Harbour. After grabbing our packs we walked down to the pier and found our new home.
The wind was great so we set sail pronto. Our watch did not begin for some time so Tom and I harnessed up and climbed the main shrouds (The rope ladders that go to the top of the main-sail). We didn't know at the time, but climbing shrouds in high wind is a little bit foolish. The wind was coming at broad reach, meaning that it is hitting the back corner of the ship first. This causes the waves to hit us at an angle, which makes the boat rock. While on deck, this rocking may cause mild nausea. While perilously hanging off ratlines at the top of the main-sail (which by the way, is about eighty feet above deck-level) this rocking motion becomes more like getting snapped back and forth on an elastic band.
Thankfully, we were blessed with no more wind after that first day. Perhaps this was a mixed blessing, however, because we were under engine power for the rest of the trip.
The first night was interesting, as I found (perhaps not the right word) that I hadn't brought my sleeping bag. Luckily, however, I brought a faux-fur coat. In the middle of the night, Tom and I awoke to tackle the peaceful duty of Night-Watch. Being extremely familiar with the night, I took to the duty like a pool shark to a seedy pub. That night we were anchored between North and South Pender Isles. The sea was calm and the stars were beautiful. As I lay on deck the songs we learnt that evening replayed themselves in my mind. I was reminded to be Jubilant at the thought of our God, to thank Him for giving us the things we need, and to have peace knowing that I am in Good Hands.
The next day was beautiful, we cruised. We studied sailors terms and skills. We played and climbed and enjoyed the sea.
The third day it rained. I realized that I hadn't remembered my rain pants. I will try not to bring it up everytime I think of it, but suffice it to say this once: my jeans were permanently soaked for the rest of the trip.
On the fourth day we had our tests. We had to know the boat from keel to top-sail. From bow-sprit to aft-quarters. From bob-stays to counter-stays. I can proudly call myself a junior sailor.
On the fifth day we came home. Jesse caught some jelly-fish in a bucket. My hair got braided.
Somewhere in that trip we went swimming. It was cold.
I really enjoyed being on the sea, and I think I could see myself doing it again. I might sign up to volunteer with them this summer.
In church news, we had our first practice today. Well, I should say all of the musically talented members of our team practiced. I drew a bit. Soon I will be leading bible studies. I am looking forward to this.
Godbless you all! Thanks for your prayers - I am growing, hard-core-like.
